Immerse yourself in the maritime atmosphere of Cantabria at the Hotel Armadores de Santander, where the freshness of the sea and historic charm merge to offer an unforgettable experience in Old Havana.
The main building, erected in 1897 by the prominent builder José Cabrera Mier, is an architectural monument that evokes the grandeur of the era, highlighted by the coat of arms of the city of Santander in relief. This emblematic hotel emerges in the midst of a rich history with ancestral connections dating back to the 19th century. Ramón Herrera y Sancibrián established his residence in Havana, where he earned the noble title of Count of La Mortera in 1876, in recognition of his outstanding work as a ship owner.
The Herrera family resided in the building on San Pedro Street, on the corner of Sol, until the early 1990s, when they acquired the property known today as “La casa del Conde de la Mortera” (the house of the Count of La Mortera). This place became an epicentre of commercial and social activity, housing the offices of prominent Santander shipowners, among them the Count de la Mortera himself, whose fleet of ships operated in the West Indies, dedicated to trade and the transport of troops from Spain.
The hotel, named in honour of this illustrious historical connection, occupies three buildings on Calle San Pedro between Santa Clara and Luz. Two of them are identified as numbers 356 and 358 San Pedro, while the main body is located at numbers 2 and 4 Luz Street.
With its façade decorated with the Santander coat of arms and the large wooden door marked with the initials J.C., belonging to the original owner José Cabrera, the Hotel Armadores de Santander represents a living testimony to the architectural and cultural evolution of Havana. Since its construction in the late 19th century, the building has housed a variety of social functions, from the Balearic Centre for charity and mutual aid to shops such as sweet shops, bars, barber shops and money exchange establishments, as well as more controversial stages such as a house of prostitution in the 1930s and an inn in later decades.
Today, converted into a renowned hotel, this building remains a symbol of Havana’s rich history and architecture, offering visitors a unique experience that combines the charm of the past with modern comfort and hospitality.
Hotel Armadores de Santander offers elegant and comfortable accommodation in the heart of Old Havana, one of the most emblematic and vibrant areas of the Cuban capital. This historic establishment stands out for its architecture and design, which combine tradition with modern comfort.
The rooms, decorated in an eclectic style that evokes different past eras, offer a unique experience that reflects the authenticity and charm of local Havana life. Guests can immerse themselves in Havana’s rich history and culture while enjoying the comforts of the contemporary world.
From cosy standard rooms to luxurious suites with private balconies and Jacuzzi, each accommodation option is carefully designed to ensure maximum comfort and convenience for guests.
Standard rooms, with their warm décor and cosy details, provide an ideal retreat after a day exploring the city.
For those seeking an even more exclusive experience, the hotel’s suites offer a superior level of luxury, with larger spaces and additional amenities.
All rooms are equipped with air conditioning to ensure a pleasant stay all year round, safe for the security of personal belongings, television with a selection of international channels, minibar stocked with drinks and snacks, and telephone for easy communication.
In addition, the rooms offer spacious rooms and balconies with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the sea, allowing guests to enjoy the natural and architectural beauty of Havana from the comfort of their own room.
The jewel of the hotel is undoubtedly the master suite. With 112 square metres of space, this suite boasts luxurious details that ensure an unforgettable experience. The parquet floors add a touch of elegance and warmth, while the large canopied bed invites you to a restful sleep in a majestic setting.
The private Jacuzzi is perfect for unwinding after a day of city adventures, and the balcony overlooking the Caribbean offers an idyllic setting for watching the sunset or enjoying a glass of wine in the evening.
Hotel Armadores de Santander provides not just a place to stay, but an authentic Cuban experience. Its attentive and professional staff is dedicated to making every stay as pleasant as possible, offering personalised services and recommendations for exploring Old Havana and the surrounding area.
From its strategic location, guests can easily access numerous historical, cultural and gastronomic points of interest, making this hotel a perfect choice for those wishing to discover all that Havana has to offer.
The Hotel Armadores de Santander prides itself on offering a wide range of services meticulously designed to guarantee an unforgettable experience for its guests. From the 24-hour reception to the organisation of exciting excursions in and around the city, every detail is designed to ensure a comfortable and pleasant stay.
Outstanding services include efficient baggage handling, making it easy for guests to take the hassle out of travel formalities from the moment they arrive. The hotel also offers convenient and safe transfers to and from the airport, ensuring a smooth arrival and departure.
For those travelling by car, the parking service provides convenience and peace of mind, allowing easy access to the vehicle at any time. In addition, childcare is available so that parents can enjoy their stay with complete peace of mind while their little ones are entertained and well looked after.
The hotel’s restaurant is a must-visit dining destination, where guests can enjoy an exquisite selection of Caribbean and international dishes. Strategically located to offer panoramic views of Havana Bay from its terrace, it provides a charming ambience for every meal of the day.
For those moments of relaxation and enjoyment, the Marina Bar offers a cosy atmosphere and an irresistible variety of creative cocktails and fresh fruit juices. It is the perfect place to relax and share special moments after a day exploring the charms of Havana.
In short, Hotel Armadores de Santander not only offers quality accommodation and a privileged location, but also strives to provide exceptional services that exceed its guests’ expectations, making every visit a memorable and enriching experience.
Situated in the heart of Havana’s historic district, the Hotel Armadores de Santander offers a privileged location for exploring the city’s countless cultural and architectural treasures. This emblematic hotel offers not only luxurious accommodation, but also an ideal starting point to discover the wonders of Havana.
From the hotel, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of Havana Bay, an especially beautiful sight at sunrise and sunset. The hotel’s location allows easy access to many of the Cuban capital’s main points of interest, such as the Havana Capitol, which is only a 19-minute walk from the hotel. This monumental building, with its distinctive dome, is a symbol of the city and offers guided tours that allow visitors to admire its impressive architecture and learn about its history.
Within walking distance, guests can stroll through the Central Park, a popular place to relax and observe local life. Nearby is the Gran Teatro de La Habana, home to the National Ballet of Cuba, where magnificent ballet and opera performances can be enjoyed.
The charming Malecon, Havana’s famous seaside avenue, is also close to the hotel. This long waterfront thoroughfare is perfect for leisurely strolls, where visitors can feel the sea breeze, enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean and observe Havana’s vibrant street life. At sunset, the Malecón becomes a magical place, ideal for capturing breathtaking photographs and unforgettable moments.
For those looking for a beach getaway, the Blue Circuit provides access to some of the most beautiful beaches near Havana. Beaches such as Bucaranao, Bocaciega, Guanabo and Megano, all within a short drive from the hotel, offer white sands and crystal clear waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing and water sports.
The hotel is also conveniently located just a 30-minute drive from José Martí International Airport, making it easy to get to and from the city, as well as connecting to other destinations on the island. Armadores de Santander not only provides comfortable accommodation, but also offers a gateway to the rich culture, history and natural beauty of Havana and its surroundings.
With its unbeatable location and proximity to numerous points of interest, guests can fully enjoy the Cuban experience, exploring the most iconic sites and enjoying all that this vibrant city has to offer.
Address: Calle Luz núm.4, Esquina a San Pedro, La Habana Vieja
Contact: +53 78 62 62 80 00 – +53 78 62 62 80 80
Email: jefe.comercial@occ.gaviota.cu
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